My Fan Letter To Rob Thomas - Matchbox 20

To Rob Thomas; My favorite rockin' fellow Orlandian! I can't begin to tell you how much impact you've had on my life. Your music with the magnificent Matchbox 20 and as a solo artist makes Sunshine's heart happy. I was introduced to your music about 12 years ago by my husband. I hesitated because he was also a fan of the Mighty, Mighty Bosstones. I wasn't and I'm still not. Since I have a diverse love of music I said, "Sure, why not, bring on MB20." The first song I heard was Real World. Wow, that song blew me away! By the time the Yourself, or Someone Like You (1996) album was over I had a headache, but in a good way. Yes, I was doing a lot of headbanging. I immediately bought your second album Mad Season. I became madly in love with Matchbox 20 and Rob Thomas. I still am. I always will be.

I understood that you needed a break and wanted to try out a solo career in 2006. I wasn't thrilled about your decision and neither was the band. A couple of catfights broke out with band members, but it was your life to do as you see fit. You garnished a few hits going solo, unlike other artists who break free from a band. You were a success. Even though you were on hiatus from Matchbox you still toured with them in between your two solo albums. In 2010 you announced that Matchbox will be coming out with a fifth album! YAY! Sunshine was elated! Oh how I missed me some MB20 music and you were bringing it back for your fans. The word on the street was that the album will be out in 2011, it wasn't. Early 2012 was the latest announcement. I'm anxiously awaiting it's arrival.

Those of us with inquisitive minds wonder about the origins of names. So I set out in search of MB20's and my discovery was both unique and interesting. Both you and Paul Douchette (rhythm guitar, vocals) were waiting tables in a restaurant. A customer was wearing a shirt with the number twenty covered in patches. Paul could only make out the name matchbox on the shirt. The name of your band was born. Matchbox 20. Now what if this customer was wearing a shirt with the number 13 and you were both working at TGI Friday's? Your band could have been named Friday the 13th. I'm glad you chose the name you did. The first band you were a member of was Tabitha's Secret. They weren't a smashing success like MB20. We all have to start somewhere.

It looks like you have a birthday coming up soon! A Valentine birthday! February 14th, 1972. You have a heart of gold and your birth date is perfect for you. My dad and brother also share that birth date. Not only are you a superstar singer and songwriter, but you have many causes you and your wife Marisol support. Your love and devotion for animals is heartwarming. You both also started the foundation Sidewalk Angels to help needy fellow citizens get back on their feet and animals who are abused. This is a non-profit organization. I commend you for making a difference in the world. If we could all just take a few moments each day to make one small difference this planet would be a more pleasant place to live. Just a thought.

You were born in Germany and traveled often due to being an army brat, but you consider Orlando your home! YAY! Even though you now live in NY, I still consider you an Orlandian! I was born and bred in NY but consider FL home. I'm thankful and I know you are thankful for Russ and Bo from 104.1 Real Radio of Orlando. They gave you your big break and played your tunes for the very first time in 1995. Thank you Russ and Bo! You both rock!

I've been to many concerts, but Matchbox 20 was and still is my favorite. Chances are it will always be. It's not because we were given free tickets by the record label either. It was because you along with MB20 were brilliant! The fans were on their feet the entire time, heck no one wanted to sit down. We wanted to jump up and down just like you were doing on stage! I wanted to be on that stage with you! Thank you for that memorable memory for my husband and I.

Whether your music is playing on pop, easy listening or alternative radio stations I'm jamming along with you. Whether I am in the car or strolling an aisle of the grocery store Sunshine is singing and possibly dancing. Do I care who sees me, heck no! Life is too short to worry about small things like that. It's all about enjoying the moment.

I'm wishing Marisol good health with her rare autoimmune disorder. Your video of Her Diamonds that you wrote and dedicated to her was very inspiring to others. The video brought your fans to tears. When someone we love is hurting it breaks our heart. We want to make everything better and it's painful when we can't. You and Marisol are both blessed to have each other. Married since 1999, I'm wishing you many more years of wedded bliss.

You rightfully deserved the Grammy's you won and if it was up to me you'd have lots more! You and I are both fans of the Huffington Post! As a matter of fact it was you who turned me onto them! My articles made their way to Huff a couple of times, that was exciting. Feel free to share this tribute with them if you want.

I recall a Huff article I once read where you said you supported same sex marriages. Kudos to you for being open-minded! You actually listening to other's points of view is another reason why you have millions of fans on Twitter! Your tweets on Twitter are sincere and meaningful. You aren't a drama celebrity, you are the real deal. Your fans aren't just fans, they are like family to you, which we appreciate. This is why YOU Rob Thomas will always be held in the highest regard. Now if you could put the pedal to the medal for Matchbox 20's newest album I would greatly appreciate it. I love me some MB20 and need more asap! Thank you for the memories and for being you! Rock on' Robert Kelly Thomas!